Muster, March, and Mingle!
“A better world begins with us”
By Dennis McNabb, The Canby Chronicle
For those who live in Hope Village or the greater Canby area, the name Dave Lien should be familiar. If it’s not, his smiling countenance certainly will be. Dave is a source of inspiration to anyone he meets. If you’ve seen him on the street, there’s a good chance he’s changed your outlook on the rest of your day. If you have the opportunity to join his “Walk with Dave” in September, there’s an even better chance he’ll change your outlook on the rest of your life.
In 2015, Dave lost his right leg to amputation. In 2022, he lost his other leg. In the aftermath of such devastation, he questioned, like anyone would, what he could do with his life that would not include being a burden to anyone. He was dealing with a potential loss of independence. In the beginning, he fought any help that was offered, insisting he could do things for himself. But as a result, he felt miserable and alone. Fortunately, his faith brought him a change of heart.
He realized that by opening up, by allowing people to help, that he could make connections. And those connections mattered. They elevated his spirits as well as those of the people who showed him kindness. Instead of staying indoors, he made an effort to get out, exercise, and meet people. And the reception he received was overwhelmingly positive. Inspiring others as much as he was inspired by them, his pain was transformed into purpose.
In December 2024, after a dusting of snow, he went out and made snow angels with his prosthetics. It wasn’t easy, but it was fun, and when one of his fellow residents admitted her delight over the incident, she inadvertently admitted that she hadn’t been outside in over three months. That admission became the seed that sprouted into the idea of hosting a walk for their community.
“Walk with Dave” began in 2025 and has returned for its second year in 2026. Dave said he loves to see the people of Canby come together to encourage each other, get some fresh air, exercise, and build a sense of community. This year’s event will take place on Tuesday, September 8, at Canby Grove Christian Center. Check-in 10:30 AM, walk begins 11:00 AM, lunch 12:30 PM, event winds down 2–3 PM.
The event is free, and $10 donations are appreciated to help cover costs. Lunch and commemorative T-shirts are provided for all participants. Roughly 15-20 other amputees will be joining Dave, but people of all ages and abilities are invited. The Canby Police Department, the Canby Fire Department, and the Canby Area Chamber of Commerce will also be in attendance.
For more information, to enroll, or to donate funds, please check out Dave’s website at walkwithdave.net. This is a fantastic opportunity to inspire and be inspired by some amazing people in our community. Don’t miss out!
